Achoo!  Achoo!  Sniff, sniff.  As I sneezed and sniffled, I filled a small glass full of cool, fresh water from the kitchen faucet.  I picked up the handful of freshly picked dandelions that were lying  on the table beside me and carefully place them into the water.   After setting the glassful of flowers in the middle of the table, I arranged them thoughtfully and then stood back inspecting my work.  Tears came to my eyes as I marveled at these pesky yellow weeds.  They were the most precious bunch of flowers that I had ever received.

All of a sudden, the door flew open, and in scurried three bright-eyed, giggling children, each with another handful of dandelions.  One by one, they stuffed their prized fistful of pretty yellow weeds in the already full glass of water.  Excitement glistened in their eyes.  I could tell it was a gift from their hearts, given with all the love they had to offer.  “We love you Mom,” their voices echoed as they ran out the backdoor to hunt for more little yellow flowers.

I wished that I had a way to help them realize that they had already given me the most precious gift I’ll ever receive–their love!

Because of God’s love for each of us, he gave the most precious gift he had–his only son.  All he wants is our love in return.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  (John 3:16)